Basketball Club Astana continues its run in the FIBA West Asia Super League (WASL) group stage, with the next challenge coming at home against Syrian side Al Wahda. The game will be played in Astana at the Saryarka Velodrome.
After the landmark win over reigning champions Al Riyadi, Astana goes into this matchup with a 2–1 record and a strong boost in confidence. That result has kept the team firmly in the mix near the top of the standings and adds extra weight to the upcoming game.
Al Wahda is one of Syria’s most decorated clubs and a regular presence in international competitions. The team is known for its organised defence, physical style of play, and ability to push the tempo — especially in transition.
For Astana, key contributions in the current WASL campaign have come from Robert Pan, who continues to score consistently while controlling the boards, along with Vadim Shcherbak and Alexander Zhigulin, both of whom have played important roles on the offensive end. E.J. Day remains central to the team’s rhythm, setting the pace and creating opportunities for teammates, as reflected in his steady assist numbers.
Al Wahda’s game is driven by experienced leaders who influence both ends of the floor. Offensively, the Syrian side relies on its imports to provide scoring and playmaking, while defensively the focus is on a strong, physical frontcourt that battles on the glass and protects the paint.
For Astana, this matchup will be another test of depth, discipline, and focus. The coaching staff continues to stress ball movement, defensive intensity, and rebounding — areas that will be especially important against Al Wahda.
Home support is once again expected to play a key role, as fans in Astana will witness a game that could have a major impact on the balance of power in the West Asia group.
Astana kept their momentum rolling in their debut FIBA West Asia Super League season, picking up a third straight win on Thursday, 18 December. Playing at the Saryarka Velodrome, the capital side beat Syria’s Al Wahda 88–64, extending their perfect home record in the competition.
From the opening minutes, Astana were in control. The hosts scored the first nine points of the game, set a high tempo, and clearly took charge by the end of the first quarter. By halftime, the lead was already in double figures, and Astana managed the second half with confidence, never allowing Al Wahda a way back into the contest.
The night belonged to Adas Juškevičius, who delivered an outstanding performance. The Lithuanian guard finished with 35 points, shooting an impressive 11-of-15 from the field, and added 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals in a complete all-around display.
“The points don’t really matter — the most important thing is the win,” Juškevičius said after the game. “I’m happy to be part of Astana and to help the team succeed.”
Robert Pan also made a big impact, posting a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while contributing on both ends of the floor with strong defence and smart passing.
With the victory, Astana strengthened their hold on second place in the WASL standings after the first round of games. All three of the team’s wins in the tournament so far have come on home court.
The WASL now pauses for the holiday break and will return in January. Astana’s next game in the competition is scheduled for 15 January, when they will host Iranian champions Shahrdari Gorgan.
